27950, Knotts Island, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27950, Knotts Island, North Carolina is 4 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.57 percent of the residents in 27950 has some form of health insurance. 22.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.57 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 27950 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 358 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27950. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 220 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 188 health care providers accessible to residents in 27950, Knotts Island, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Knotts Island, NC (ZIP Code 27950)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Knotts Island, North Carolina, necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering the unique challenges of a geographically isolated community. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources within ZIP code 27950. We will strive to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' analysis, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

Knotts Island, a rural community, faces inherent difficulties in healthcare access. The limited population density often translates to a lower concentration of healthcare providers compared to more urban areas. This geographical reality significantly impacts the 'Overall Health Score', requiring careful consideration of resource allocation and accessibility.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and a greater burden on existing healthcare providers. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Knotts Island requires data from various sources, including the North Carolina Medical Board and local healthcare facilities. However, given the community's size and location, it is reasonable to anticipate a less favorable ratio compared to more populated areas.

Primary care availability is equally crucial. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the cornerstone of preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. The presence of a dedicated primary care practice within or immediately accessible to Knotts Island is paramount. The analysis will need to identify the number of primary care practices, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of new patients. The existence of practices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments can positively influence the 'Overall Health Score' by increasing accessibility.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Quality:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating various factors, including patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, employ a diverse team of healthcare professionals, and actively participate in community health initiatives are likely to score higher. This analysis will delve into the reputation of local practices, assessing their adherence to quality standards and their ability to meet the specific healthcare needs of the Knotts Island population.

The quality of care is a complex concept. It encompasses clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and the overall experience of interacting with the healthcare system. Factors such as the availability of specialized services, the ability to manage chronic diseases effectively, and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) all contribute to the quality of care. Practices that utilize EHRs to improve communication and coordination of care can positively impact the 'Overall Health Score'.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services remotely via technology, holds significant potential for Knotts Island. It can bridge the geographical gap, increasing access to specialists, mental health professionals, and other healthcare providers who may not be physically present in the community. The analysis will assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among local practices, identifying the types of services offered remotely and the ease with which patients can access these services.

Telemedicine adoption can have a substantial positive impact on the 'Overall Health Score', particularly for a geographically isolated community. It can reduce the need for long travel times, improve access to specialized care, and enhance the overall convenience of healthcare. The analysis will assess the availability of telemedicine platforms, the affordability of these services, and the level of patient and provider satisfaction with their use.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the 'Overall Health Score'. The analysis will identify the presence of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, within or easily accessible to Knotts Island. It will also assess the availability of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and other resources that can support the mental health needs of the community.

The stigma surrounding mental health often prevents individuals from seeking help. The presence of readily available and accessible mental health resources can help to reduce this stigma and improve the overall health of the community. The analysis will evaluate the accessibility of mental health services, their affordability, and their integration with primary care practices.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

Based on the available information, the 'Overall Health Score' for Knotts Island (ZIP Code 27950) is likely to be moderate. The community's rural location presents challenges in terms of physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, and access to specialized services. However, the potential for telemedicine adoption and the presence of dedicated healthcare providers can mitigate some of these challenges. The 'Overall Health Score' can be further enhanced by increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, the recruitment of healthcare professionals, and the promotion of preventative care initiatives. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources are also critical factors in determining the overall health of the community.

The final score will be influenced by the specific data points gathered for each category. The analysis will provide a detailed assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, highlighting areas where improvements can be made to enhance the health and well-being of the Knotts Island community. The score will be presented in a way that is easily understood and actionable, providing insights that can inform healthcare policy and resource allocation decisions.

**Call to Action:**

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